That's not true. Sorry but I'm in the industry myself and I know a lot of amazing pilots who simply don't want to make the move abroad to Emirates or anywhere long haul. The guys I know that want to remain based in Ireland are doing it as they love their family life and don't want to move their partners/kids away and also want to stay close to parents. Life in Emirates isn't all its made out to be.The fact is he's one of the most shameworthy pilots in there.
Loads of his mates who started there with him have gone in to bigger airlines. There's a well supported rumour he went for an interview for Emirates on the A380 and didn't even get passed the first round.
The reality is that being a pilot in AL is absolutely nothing special. A lot or the FOs are just guys who are too old for anyone decent to hire. RYANAIR FOs earn more than AL FOs!!!
I have a family member who is a Capt in there and he said in Irish aviation in the last 10 years all the talent as usual goes abroad and the shakings of the bag are left behind. Aer Lingus are making do with the lads the ME 3 won't take like Juan and the like.